Poland has become one of the most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs in Central and Eastern Europe.

A stable legal environment, access to the EU market and relatively low operating costs make it a strong choice for starting a business.

A common question is simple:

Can foreigners legally run a business in Poland?

The answer is yes – but the available options depend on legal status and residency.

Who can run a business like Polish citizens?

Some foreigners can operate under the same rules as Polish citizens – including registering a sole proprietorship (JDG).

This applies to:

• EU and EEA citizens
• holders of permanent residence permits
• EU long-term residents
• individuals with international protection
• selected temporary residence permit holders

These individuals can register a business through CEIDG, just like Polish nationals.

What about non-EU nationals?

Foreigners who do not meet the above criteria cannot open a sole proprietorship.

However, they can still establish companies in Poland, including:

• limited liability company (sp. z o.o.)
• joint-stock company
• limited partnership

In practice, the most common choice is the limited liability company (sp. z o.o.) due to:

• limited liability
• relatively simple structure
• flexibility for foreign shareholders

Company registration process in Poland

A limited liability company can be registered in two ways:

• online via the S24 system
• through a notary

Key requirements include:

• registered address in Poland
• management board
• minimum share capital of PLN 5,000

While it is possible to complete the process independently, professional support often reduces errors and delays.

Bank account and VAT registration

After registration, the company should:

• open a business bank account
• register for VAT (if required)

For foreign entrepreneurs, this stage can involve:

• additional identity verification
• extended documentation requirements
• longer processing times

Accounting and tax obligations

Companies operating in Poland must comply with:

• full accounting requirements
• corporate income tax (CIT)
• financial reporting obligations

In practice, working with an accounting firm is not optional – it is essential for maintaining compliance.

Do you need to live in Poland?

Foreigners do not always need to reside in Poland to open a company.

However, if they plan to:

• live in Poland
• actively manage the business locally

then appropriate residence permits or visas may be required.

What this means in practice

Opening a company in Poland as a foreigner is fully possible – but the process is not identical for everyone.

The key factors are:

• legal status
• choice of company structure
• understanding of local regulations

Getting these right at the beginning saves time, cost and legal risk later.

How Easybooks can support foreign entrepreneurs

At Easybooks, we support foreign founders entering the Polish market with:

• company registration in Poland
• guidance on legal structure
• accounting and tax setup
• ongoing accounting and payroll services
• support in communication with Polish authorities

If you are planning to open a company in Poland and want to avoid unnecessary complications, it’s worth setting everything up correctly from the start.

Contact Easybooks and start your business in Poland with full clarity and support.

Conclusion

Foreigners can successfully establish and run businesses in Poland.

However, the available options depend on residency status and legal eligibility.

Choosing the right structure and ensuring compliance from the beginning is key to a smooth and scalable business setup.